The holidays roll around once a year so it’s understandable that you’d want to enjoy the festive fare and put off healthier habits — just for now. After all, why should you deny yourself the pleasure of that once-a-year holiday-themed sugar cookie or sausage stuffing or spiked eggnog?
I’m all for enjoying any holiday goodies you fancy without guilt or giving it a second thought. However, the marathon food fest that occurs between Thanksgiving and December 31st can take a toll on your physical and emotional health. Overeating, eating poorly, and drinking more than the healthy booze limits can impact your mood and your sleep, and that can really put a damper on your holiday spirit! Plus, eating and drinking to excess often triggers guilt, stress and anxiety, which needless to say, isn’t good for your wellbeing. Navigating the holiday season healthfully is tricky for everyone. Here’s how to get through the season joyfully while remaining healthy-ish.
1. Have an abundant mindset
The allure of holiday food is often more about the fear of missing out than the food itself. It’s that once a year, get it now or wait ‘til next year mentality that can override other food sensibilities. This is especially true if you’ve been on an overly restrictive diet that eliminates your favorite foods or fun, but less healthful menu items.
Think about it this way: If you’re eyeing a pair of shoes and the store only has one pair left in your size, it makes you want them that much more. But if you know you can order them online any time you’d like, you’re in a better position to compare them to other shoes and decide if and when you’d like to make the purchase. The same is true with food. If you really want stuffing in July or a sugar cookie in September, you can find those foods. You may have to go a little out of your way to get or make them, but it’s totally doable. With an abundant mindset, you can be more selective at holiday meals.
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